Delicious Strawberry Chia Jam
Highlighted under: Sweet Bakes
I absolutely love making Delicious Strawberry Chia Jam! This recipe has become a staple in my kitchen because it’s so easy to prepare and brings a burst of fresh strawberry flavor to my breakfasts. Using chia seeds as a natural thickener not only adds nutritional benefits but also creates a lovely texture that pairs perfectly with toast or yogurt. Plus, I appreciate that I can enjoy the sweetness from the strawberries with far less sugar than traditional jams. It’s a delightful way to capture the essence of summer all year round!
Making my own strawberry chia jam has really transformed my breakfast routine. Unlike store-bought products, this jam is free of preservatives and added sugars, letting the natural sweetness of the strawberries shine through. I remember the first time I made it for my family; everyone loved the fresh taste and unique texture!
One tip I've learned is to let the chia seeds sit a few minutes after mixing to achieve the perfect consistency. This prevents any clumps and ensures that the jam spreads smoothly on toast. Now I always have a jar ready, and it brings a smile to my face every time I use it!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Fresh and vibrant strawberry flavor that’s simply irresistible
- Healthy ingredients with no added sugars or preservatives
- Versatile use as a spread, topping, or even in desserts
Ingredient Insights
The key to a successful strawberry jam lies in selecting ripe, fresh strawberries. Look for berries that are deep red, firm, and fragrant; these will be the sweetest and best for jam-making. If strawberries are out of season, consider using frozen berries, which can result in a more consistent sweetness. Just be sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture in your jam.
Chia seeds are not only a natural thickener for this jam but also bring an impressive dose of omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and protein. If you’re looking for alternatives, flaxseeds can work, but they will impart a slightly different texture. For a more pronounced sweetness, you can experiment with different natural sweeteners, such as agave nectar or coconut sugar, adjusting the quantity according to your taste preference.
Techniques for Perfect Consistency
To achieve the ideal texture, be mindful of cooking times and temperatures during the initial cooking phase with strawberries. Cook them over medium heat until they break down and become syrupy, approximately 10 minutes. If the mixture bubbles too vigorously, reduce the heat to keep it simmering gently; this helps prevent burning while ensuring even cooking.
After adding chia seeds, continue to cook the jam for an additional 5 minutes. This time allows the chia seeds to absorb the liquid and swell, thickening the jam. For a smoother texture, you can blend the mixture briefly using an immersion blender before the chia seeds are added. Just a few pulses can make a big difference!
Ingredients
Ingredients for Strawberry Chia Jam
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
- 2 tablespoons chia seeds
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
Prepare Strawberries
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the chopped strawberries and honey (if using). Cook for about 10 minutes, mashing the strawberries with a fork to release their juices.
Add Chia Seeds and Lemon Juice
Stir in the chia seeds and lemon juice. Continue cooking for an additional 5 minutes while stirring occasionally.
Cool and Store
Remove the mixture from heat and let it cool for a few minutes. Once cooled, transfer the jam to a clean jar and refrigerate. The jam will thicken as it cools down.
Pro Tips
- Feel free to experiment with other fruits like raspberries or blueberries for a different twist on this recipe.
Storage Tips
Once your strawberry chia jam is prepared and cooled, transferring it to a clean, airtight jar is crucial for maximizing freshness. Store it in the refrigerator, where it can last for up to two weeks. For longer storage, you can freeze the jam in small portions, using ice cube trays for easy thawing later. Just be sure to leave some space in the containers as the jam will expand when frozen.
For best results when reheating frozen jam, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight. If you're in a hurry, you can microwave small portions for about 20 seconds at a time until softened. Avoid overheating, as it may compromise the texture—heated chia seeds can lose their gelling power.
Serving Suggestions
This strawberry chia jam is incredibly versatile! Spread it on toasted whole grain bread for a nutritious breakfast or use it as a topping for pancakes or waffles. I also love swirling it into yogurt or oatmeal for an added flavor boost. It can even be used as a filling in pastries or as a dessert topping over ice cream and cheesecake.
For a refreshing twist, consider mixing the jam with a splash of sparkling water to create a fruity soda. You could also pair it with cheese on a charcuterie board, where the sweetness complements savory flavors beautifully. Get creative with your pairings to explore all the delicious possibilities!
Questions About Recipes
→ How long does homemade chia jam last?
Homemade chia jam can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
→ Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries. Simply thaw and chop them before following the recipe.
→ Is there a vegan option for sweetening?
Absolutely! You can use maple syrup or agave nectar instead of honey.
→ Can I freeze the jam?
Yes, this chia jam can be frozen for up to three months. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container.
Delicious Strawberry Chia Jam
I absolutely love making Delicious Strawberry Chia Jam! This recipe has become a staple in my kitchen because it’s so easy to prepare and brings a burst of fresh strawberry flavor to my breakfasts. Using chia seeds as a natural thickener not only adds nutritional benefits but also creates a lovely texture that pairs perfectly with toast or yogurt. Plus, I appreciate that I can enjoy the sweetness from the strawberries with far less sugar than traditional jams. It’s a delightful way to capture the essence of summer all year round!
What You'll Need
Ingredients for Strawberry Chia Jam
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
- 2 tablespoons chia seeds
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
How-To Steps
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the chopped strawberries and honey (if using). Cook for about 10 minutes, mashing the strawberries with a fork to release their juices.
Stir in the chia seeds and lemon juice. Continue cooking for an additional 5 minutes while stirring occasionally.
Remove the mixture from heat and let it cool for a few minutes. Once cooled, transfer the jam to a clean jar and refrigerate. The jam will thicken as it cools down.
Extra Tips
- Feel free to experiment with other fruits like raspberries or blueberries for a different twist on this recipe.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Total Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 5mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 8g
- Sugars: 24g
- Protein: 2g